1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 AMC Pacer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 AMC Pacer would be higher. At 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 90 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 182 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion.
Because 1978 AMC Pacer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 AMC Pacer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fusion, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1978 AMC Pacer (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fusion. (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fusion. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Fusion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 AMC Pacer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2008 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Pacer | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1177 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 45 L |
